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Current as of January 01, 2026 | Updated by Findlaw Staff
A cosmetic shall be deemed to be adulterated:
(1) If it bears or contains any poisonous or deleterious substance which may render it injurious to users under the conditions of use prescribed in its labeling or advertisement, or under any conditions of use that are customary or usual; provided, that this provision shall not apply to coal tar hair dye, the label of which bears the following legend conspicuously displayed on it: “Caution--This product contains ingredients which may cause skin irritation on certain individuals and a preliminary test according to accompanying directions should first be made. This product must not be used for dyeing the eyelashes or eyebrows; to do so may cause blindness,” and the labeling of which bears adequate directions for that preliminary testing. For the purpose of this subdivision and subdivision (5) of this section the term “hair dye” does not include eyelash dyes or eyebrow dyes.
(2) If it consists in whole or in part of any filthy, putrid, or decomposed substance.
(3) If it has been produced, prepared, packed, or held under unsanitary conditions by which it may have become contaminated with filth, or by which it may have been rendered injurious to health.
(4) If its container is composed, in whole or in part, of any poisonous or deleterious substance which may render the contents injurious to health.
(5) If it is not a hair dye and it bears or contains a coal tar color other than one from a batch that has been certified under authority of the Federal Act.
Cite this article: FindLaw.com - Rhode Island General Laws Title 21. Food and Drugs § 21-31-17. Adulterated cosmetics - last updated January 01, 2026 | https://codes.findlaw.com/ri/title-21-food-and-drugs/ri-gen-laws-sect-21-31-17/
FindLaw Codes may not reflect the most recent version of the law in your jurisdiction. Please verify the status of the code you are researching with the state legislature before relying on it for your legal needs.
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